Black Orthodox Cross Red Background | "May I never boast, except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ" (Gal 6:14) | Orthodox Christian Backpack

Truly this symbol is thought despicable, but it is so in the world's reckoning, and among men; in heaven and among the faithful it is the highest glory. + St John Chrysostom, Commentary on Galatians +++ Though Thou art exalted far above all honor, O Master, Thou didst deign to be dishonored, enduring a violent death upon the Tree, that when Thou didst die in the flesh, O Almighty, through it the race of mankind might embrace immortality and receive again its primal life. - Tone 1, Matins, Second Sessional Hymn after the First Reading from the Psalter